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MODERNIST ICONS Midcentury Houses and Interiors Publisher : Gestalten ISBN : 978-3-96704-119-4 A celebration of mid-century modern interiors , architecture , and design . Step into the world of mid-century modern design with Modernist Icons , an exploration of the era ’ s groundbreaking architecture and interiors from around the world . Discover how this design movement evolved from organic forms and functionality to sleek lines and refined elegance , and how it has remained a timeless classic . Delving deep into the interiors and furniture that define this iconic aesthetic , Modernist Icons showcases the journey of mid-century modernism over time . Learn how this design philosophy has influenced and informed other creative expressions and explore stunning examples from Le Corbusier , Mies van der Rohe , Lina Bo Bardi , John Lautner , and many others . Featuring expert essays and striking imagery , this beautifully curated compilation is a true celebration and overview of the midcentury modern style . Whether you ’ re a design enthusiast , architecture buff , or simply looking for inspiration for your own home , Modernist Icons is an essential addition to your library .
WESTOWN - ONE YEAR ON AND TAKING SHAPE
Westown in Shongweni KZN celebrates its first anniversary since breaking ground and what has been planned , sketched , and rendered is now coming to life .
The vast , 100ha site is a hive of activity , with local contractors Stefanutti Stocks heading up the construction work with approximately 500 people currently on site . Piling , earthworks , retaining structures and columns of Westown Square are virtually all complete and the walls of the 50,000m 2 retail experience , the first project within Westown , are going up . Westown is a mixed-use precinct , within a managed , urban environment with secured and approved development rights of approximately 520,000m 2 of bulk floor area ; the activation of these rights began when the first sod was turned for the construction of Westown Square a year ago , in August 2022 .
“ The speed at which the development team is moving is testament to our unequivocal commitment to the long-term realisation of this ultimate R15 billion investment in eThekwini ,” says Carlos Correia , CEO of Fundamentum Property Group . “ As the first development activity within the greater 100ha Westown development , Westown Square completely moves away from the ‘ mall concept ’. It brings together shopping , dining , living and recreation for all ages , with a national tenant mix enhanced by local niche offerings ; all within a setting that reflects the unique character and energy of Shongweni .”
Designed by MDS Architecture in a joint venture with Boogertman and Partners KZN , Westown Square will ‘ prioritise the movement of people , social spaces and lifestyle ’, says Donald McGillivray , MDS Architecture partner . There ’ s a strong focus on open spaces , with parks and gardens , wide , well-lit streets and pavements and cycle lanes throughout . Wetland and plant rehabilitation and the management of the surrounding active green belt is another big part of what will make Westown different to anything of its kind currently in KwaZulu-Natal . Close to 30 % of the precinct as a whole is dedicated green space and almost 300 trees will be planted within Westown Square alone .
According to Correia , “ Leasing in Westown Square has far exceeded our expectations . More than 80 % of space is already taken by some of the country ’ s biggest retail heavyweights , each bringing their latest generation , premium stores to the underserved Outer West for the first time , as well as a tranche of wellknown national and international fashion retailers . Today I ’ m thrilled to announce the involvement of a number of other partners who are coming to Westown in various capacities .”
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